Things to consider when changing to different string gauges or brand

Your new guitar comes equipped and set up with the brand and gauges of strings that we recommend. Over time, you may want to change the strings to a different brand, or different gauges. When you do, please keep the following in mind:

When the tension on the neck changes as a result of changing string gauges or the brand of strings, it might require a truss rod adjustment.

The purpose of the intonation adjustment on your guitar is to compensate for the strings' different stiffnesses and is directly related to the string gauges and brand. When the gauges or materials change, the intonation (i.e. the position of the bridges) must be adjusted accordingly.

If the string gauges are larger than the previous, you may have to enlarge the nut slots to ensure that the strings rest solidly on the 0-fret. If not, you may experience a buzzing sound like a sitar as the string vibrates against the 0-fret. Alternatively, you may encounter a condition where you are not able to move the bridge backwards far enough to do the intonation adjustment.

If the string gauges are smaller than the previous, you may have to replace the nut to ensure a tight fit on the strings. If not, the strings will have room to move from side to side, which will cause quicker than usual wear on the 0-fret.

If your guitar has a tremolo system, the springs (on the rear of the guitar) have to be adjusted to get the tremolo level with the new string tension.